A medical social worker shares how she has grown to appreciate the valuable life lessons her patients, or "fellow travelers in life" have taught her. (Photo courtesy of TTSH)
By Chiam Ai Ling
With the perception that the job of a social worker is immensely challenging, my family and friends often ask me what keeps me going. One common question is: "Isn't it very tiring and emotionally draining?"
The answer I have usually starts with "Yes, but…" as I always explain to them that attending to ill people in need is naturally challenging but not without gratification. Being a medical social worker gives me the privilege to journey with and learn from the patients and their families.
I have always kept in mind the words of a renowned psychiatrist, Dr Irvin Yalom. In his perception, patients are "fellow travelers" in this journey of life and "We are all in this together and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence". Inspired by Yalom's words of wisdom, this has influenced my approach to work. Each and every patient has their own story and life experiences and these are valuable life lessons that I have grown to appreciate.
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